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2019.12.18 07:07 GMT+8

Here's what was won and lost in the US federal spending bill

Updated 2019.12.18 07:07 GMT+8
Omar Elwafaii

The Pentagon got a record budget, about 100,000 retired union coal miners got much-needed pension benefits after their retirement fund became insolvent, and taxes on medical devices and some plans got repealed permanently.

The age for purchasing tobacco, e-cigarettes. and vaping products in the U.S. is about to go up, from 18 to 21, but some think it’s still not enough. The change in legislation doesn't address flavored vaping products that have been popular with teens.

The government's flood insurance and visa programs for skilled and seasonal workers both get an extension through September.

Democrats won a repeal of a 40% tax on high-cost employer health plans which affected many high-end plans negotiated under union contracts. They also got more funding for early childhood education and many other domestic programs.

In the bill, the cash-poor government of Puerto Rico won higher Medicare funding.

Both parties came together to get increases for medical research, fighting the opioid crisis, Head Start programs, and grants to states for child care services.

The White House said Tuesday that Trump will sign the measure which will keep the government open and funded.

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